Walk On the Wild Side! - Well Being Wednesday Blog

By Jonathan Ford

My family and I recently went on a wonderful guided walk. It taught me to see the local area in a new light.

This was organised by Steve England, a local naturalist, conservationist and educator. Steve has been a Lockleaze resident all of his life and knows Stoke Park like the back of his hand. He is so down to earth, entertaining and passionate about the outdoors and all things wild!

On Saturday 16th October we joined a small group on one of his foraging walks through Stoke Park and into Snuff Mills. We also managed to find a few fossils at Snuff Mills.

We found plants which could be used as a natural detergent to wash our clothes and ourselves with. The flavours of things we picked were so amazing, one plant has an intense lemony tang, perfect to spruce up a salad. Steve reminded us that there are many plants which can make you ill and you always need to check the plant out with an expert.

Steve organises a number of different walks in the area, some of which are free to Lockleaze residents. For further information, please see the attached link: http://steveengland.co.uk/

Most people find that spending time outdoors is good for your soul.

Please see attached links for a fantastic short walk in the woods at Stoke Park trail which may be of interest to you.

Take Care.